Who was Iscariot?
“Iscariot” refers most notably to Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve disciples chosen by Jesus Christ. The name Iscariot (Greek: Ἰσκαριώτης, Iskariōtēs) likely derives from the Hebrew Ish Kerioth, meaning “man of Kerioth,” possibly identifying Judas’s place of origin as Kerioth, a town in Judah (cf. Joshua 15:25). This would distinguish him from others named Judas in the New Testament (e.g., Judas son of James). As such, Judas Iscariot may have been the only Judean among the Galilean apostles.
Judas Iscariot is mentioned in all four Gospels and the book of Acts. He is listed among the twelve in Matthew 10:4, Mark 3:19, Luke 6:16, and John 6:71, always with a reference to his betrayal. Judas‘s name became synonymous with treachery and betrayal, as he handed Jesus over to the chief priests for thirty pieces of silver (Matthew 26:14-16).
Biblical Account and Character
Chosen as One of the Twelve
In Matthew 10:1–4, Judas Iscariot is named as one of the twelve apostles. Though fully included in Jesus’ inner circle, his heart was not truly aligned with Christ. His inclusion among the twelve highlights the mystery of divine sovereignty and human responsibility.
The Betrayal of Jesus
Judas’s most infamous act is his betrayal of Jesus. Motivated by greed, Satanic influence, or disillusionment with Jesus‘ mission, Judas conspired with the chief priests to betray Jesus for thirty silver coins (Matthew 26:14-16; cf. Zechariah 11:12-13). At the Last Supper, Jesus revealed that one of the twelve would betray Him. Judas confirmed this when Jesus said, “You have said so” (Matthew 26:25). Later that night in Gethsemane, Judas led a crowd to arrest Jesus and betrayed Him with a kiss (Matthew 26:47-50).
His Death and Remorse
Matthew 27:3–5 records Judas’s deep remorse after seeing that Jesus was condemned. He returned the silver and confessed, “I have sinned, for I have betrayed innocent blood.” The chief priests dismissed him, and Judas threw the silver into the temple and hanged himself. Acts 1:18–19 adds further details of his gruesome death, likely harmonizing with Matthew’s account as complementary perspectives on the same event.
Theological Significance
Judas Iscariot stands as a sober reminder of how close proximity to Jesus does not guarantee true faith or salvation. He heard Jesus‘ teachings, witnessed His miracles, and even performed ministry himself—yet his heart remained darkened. His life embodies the tragic result of rejecting Christ in favor of worldly gain.
Judas‘s betrayal fulfilled Scripture (Psalm 41:9; Zechariah 11:12-13), demonstrating that even evil actions are under God’s sovereign rule and are used to bring about His redemptive plan. Jesus’ crucifixion, though brought about by treachery, was the very means by which salvation was accomplished for sinners.
What It Means for Christians Today
Judas warns Christians against superficial discipleship and divided loyalties. Profession of faith must be accompanied by genuine transformation and love for Christ. His story teaches that sin, left unchecked, leads to destruction—and that no external religious role can substitute for true heart devotion.
Judas’s end is tragic: remorse without repentance. He felt sorrow but did not turn to Christ for mercy. Christians are called not just to regret sin but to repent and believe in the gospel, receiving forgiveness and new life in Christ.
How the Story Points to Jesus and the Gospel
Though Judas betrayed Jesus, his act became the trigger for the events leading to the cross. Jesus knew Judas’s intentions (John 6:64-71) and still loved him to the end (John 13:1-2). Jesus willingly laid down His life, not as a victim, but as the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29).
The gospel proclaims that Christ died even for traitors, and all who repent—regardless of past betrayal—can be restored. Peter, who also failed Jesus, was restored after repentance (John 21). Judas could have been forgiven too, had he turned to the risen Savior.
Broader Biblical Themes
Sovereignty of God
God’s plan of redemption was not thwarted by Judas’s betrayal but fulfilled through it. This echoes the broader theme of God’s control over all history for His redemptive purposes (Genesis 50:20; Romans 8:28).
True Discipleship
Judas contrasts with the other disciples, especially Peter. His life underscores the theme of enduring, heart-level faith as opposed to mere outward allegiance.
The Deceitfulness of Sin
Judas’s downfall illustrates how unchecked sin can harden the heart and lead to destruction. As James 1:14-15 says, “Desire… gives birth to sin; and sin… brings forth death.”
Christ’s Willing Sacrifice
Jesus was not caught off guard by Judas. He predicted the betrayal and embraced the cross, pointing to His mission to save the lost.
Reflection Questions
- How does Judas’s story challenge my understanding of true discipleship?
- Am I truly following Christ from the heart, or merely outwardly?
- What sins or desires am I tolerating that could lead me away from Christ?
- How can I cultivate sincere repentance and guard my heart from deceit?
- What does Judas’s story teach me about the depth of God’s love and Jesus’ willingness to save even the worst of sinners?
Judas Iscariot’s story is tragic but serves as a powerful warning and call to examine ourselves. It also magnifies the grace of Jesus, who went to the cross with full knowledge of betrayal and still offered salvation freely.